Derrick Rose announces retirement after 16 NBA seasons: ‘Thank you, my first love’

Derrick Rose, former NBA MVP, retires, expressing deep gratitude for basketball in an emotional farewell.

Derrick Rose, a former NBA MVP and veteran of 16 seasons, officially announced his retirement on Thursday, shortly after being placed on waivers by the Memphis Grizzlies. In a heartfelt message titled “Thank You, My First Love,” Rose reflected on his relationship with basketball, describing it as his “constant when everything else seemed uncertain.” He added, “You showed me what love truly meant” and expressed gratitude for the lessons learned from the game, both on and off the court.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Derrick Rose (@drose)

Rose’s career, which began after being selected first overall in the 2008 NBA draft, was highlighted by his remarkable run with the Chicago Bulls, where he became the youngest MVP in NBA history in 2011. However, recurring injuries prevented him from reaching his full potential. After his eight-year tenure with the Bulls, Rose played for the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies.

In his farewell message, Rose reminisced about the impact basketball had on his life, saying, “You introduced me to new places and cultures that a kid from Chicago could have never imagined.” He also credited the sport for teaching him life lessons, adding, “You offered wisdom that was not just about the game, but about life, discipline, hard work, perseverance.”

Rose concluded his emotional message by saying, “You told me it’s okay to say goodbye, reassuring me that you’ll always be a part of me, no matter where life takes me.”